A journalist is someone who pursues a career in journalism, whose main job is to deliver the news. After earning a degree in journalism or communication, a journalist can work freelance jobs, for a newspaper, or for a radio or television program.
This is an exciting and fast-paced career for those who are interested in current events in society and passionate about storytelling. Starting a career in this field is challenging, but with the right advice and idea of where to start, you can do it, especially if you’re passionate about writing and speaking.
If you want to become a journalist, skills in writing and speaking can come naturally, if you get the proper training. Continue reading to discover how you can start a career in journalism.
What Is Journalism?
It helps explain recent and current events in society. These events can impact our lives in some ways. Writing in journalism involves informing people about things happening around us, and it is also referred to as newsgathering and storytelling. There are three main ways to gather information to build a news segment or story – interviews, observation, and documents.
Storytelling in journalism involves a lot of reading and writing. Good journalism is getting the facts straight, being honest, and not trying to write too fancifully.
Types of Journalism
There are five principal types of journalism: investigative, news, reviews, columns, and feature writing.
- Investigative journalism aims to uncover the truth about a particular subject, person, or event. It is based on the principle of verifying facts.
- News journalism is the writing of events straightforward. It relays facts, circumstances, and information with accurate information written in an unbiased manner.
- Reviews are partly opinion and partly fact-based. A review needs to accurately describe or show the identity of the subject and provide an informed view of the subject matter.
- Columns include the personality of the writer. They can take a humorous approach to the subject matter or any approach the writer specializes in for a specific topic.
- Feature writing provides the scope and depth of a story that aims to explore topics and provide an unseen perspective of an issue or event.
Journalist Job Average Pay
Typically, journalists who work 40 hours a week (full-time) earn an average salary of $39,726 per year, according to Payscale.com. However, the average pay can depend greatly on the years of experience of the journalist.
Where to Find Journalism Jobs
An essential step in any journalism career is to apply as an intern with a newspaper, magazine, or media company. After earning a degree in Journalism or Communication, an internship can help you establish a connection and network with reporters and editors in the industry. An internship can also help you gain exposure to the field while giving you a feel for what journalists do day-to-day.
You can usually apply for a full-time job in the company where you had your internship. Another option is to apply online as a freelance writer or journalist.
Include your internship program in your resume. You can also ask for a letter of recommendation from the previous company you worked for as an intern.
Where to Apply for Journalism Jobs Online
A journalist has a wide variety of options in a lot of industries. When you earn a degree in Journalism or Communications, you can apply to writing jobs, marketing jobs, newspaper and magazine jobs, and more.
You can apply for the jobs listed above via the following online platforms that let you filter your search by location, company, and other relevant factors.
Make sure to have a presentable and formal resume. Take all the exams necessary on the website, as well. It is likely that, even in the worst-case scenario, these sites can provide you with some valuable networking tools and insights regarding the playing field.
Conclusion
Starting a career in journalism starts with passion, whether in writing or speaking. You can apply to jobs in many varying industries, giving you a comprehensive set of options as a journalist.
Also read – Start a Career as an Editor Now